overview

Environmental Factors

Asbestos Dust can be found in your nearest construction site

Environmental pollution also is responsible for some cases of lung cancer. The main mode of transport for these pollutive materials are through particles in the air which are invisible to the human eye. Other than causing lung cancer, these particles also cause other problems like breathing difficulties and skin allergies. Although most health organizations stress the importance of smoking in lung cancer, many forget another thorn in their side, pollution. These types of pollution usually result from construction activities or other intensive industries that require granite as part of their processing raw materials. Read on to find out more about this shady and elusive cause of lung cancer.

Radon

Radon is an invisible, odorless, and tasteless radioactive gas that occurs sometimes in soil and rocks. It can cause damage to the lungs that may lead to lung cancer. People who work in mines may be exposed to radon. Radon can also be found in homes that are poorly ventilated. Radon Home Test kits can be purchased at most hardware stores. They are relatively easy to use and inexpensive. Once a radon problem is corrected, the hazard is gone for good. Singapore does not have such an problem. However, it is still an risk in many developing countries where crowded conditions and poor ventilation are extremely common.

Asbestos

Asbestos is a naturally occurring fiber/particulate matter used in certain industries. They are usually formed by the breaking of granite rocks into small particles. Asbestos fibers tend to break easily into particles that can float in the air and stick to clothes. When the particles are inhaled, they can lodge in the airways and lungs, irritating the airway lining and damaging cells. Asbestos inhalation can lead to a lung disease called asbestosis and mesothelioma. Studies have shown that workers who have been exposed to large amounts of asbestos have a risk of developing lung cancer that is 3 to 4 times greater than that for workers who have not been exposed to asbestos. Asbestos workers should use the protective equipment provided by their employers and follow recommended work practices and safety procedures.

Pollution

Many studies have found a link between lung cancer and exposure to certain air pollutants, such as by-products of the combustion of diesel and other fossil fuels. However, research on this matter is still ongoing.

*Information taken from Wikipedia.org, all information taken is free and comes under the Creative Commons.

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